5 Ways to Become a Better Leader
“With great power, comes great responsibility.”
If you lead and manage a team, you are a part of a unique subsection of society. You could be a hero or a train wreck but either way, you will be the topic of conversation at the dinner table. Leaders have the unique opportunity to transform the lives of their team. We spend more time with those we work with than our own families. Every leader should be striving for continual development of self and others’. There are a handful of things you can start implementing immediately.
- Tackle Tough Conversations
No one gets that excited about having difficult conversations. (If you do, you may need a different kind of blog) It’s not easy, and it’s definitely not fun. However, some of the best advice is that “feedback is a gift.” If your intention is good, don’t hesitate to have a tough conversation. Someone will appreciate it more than you imagine.
- Get to Know Each Employees Strengths and Weaknesses
A great coach learns their players and identifies the best position. A great leader sees the strengths and opportunities on their team and uses this knowledge to create a game plan. The ultimate goal is to meet or exceed business objectives. Help your team maximize their strengths and performance will skyrocket.
- Stop Underestimating Quiet Employees
There is value in spending one-on-one time with team members that seem reserved. Ask for their feedback and input on specific projects of interest. Dig into what they get excited about; it’s important to engage employees that tend to need you less.
- Hire Someone Smarter than You
If you take away nothing else, please hire someone that complements your skill set. You may also say that they are “smarter than you.” A leader that is open to learning from their employees will gain trust and respect. Ultimately, find an employee that has the ability to run circles around you. It’s an amazing thing for you and the business.
- Involve Your Team in Goal-Setting
As a leader, you do not have to try to solve the world’s problems alone, though it may feel like it. You can ask for feedback on priorities, pain points, and even what goals should be in place. Each team member will feel valued and will appreciate being included. Additionally, you will have immediate insight that can only propel the company forward. Genius!
The first step in becoming a better leader is first having the desire. Once you have the motivation and share that desire with those around you, the first step is accomplished.